Obituary of Richard Alan Bowers

Richard Alan Bowers, 64, of Alarka, passed away suddenly October 25th, 2023 at home. Richard was born in Bryson City, North Carolina on September 25th, 1959 to George Richard and Carol Bilenski Bowers. Richard was raised and remained on the family homestead on Alarka. He was preceded in death by his father. He leaves behind his mother; sister Karen Pfirrmann (Michael); niece Chancy Tsoumbos (Athanasios); niece Megan Sheets (Eric); niece Aletheia Tsoumbos and numerous treasured family and friends. Richard was a fly fisherman and farmer at heart. His day was best spent fishing on the banks of the Nantahala River. He was a professional fly fishing guide sharing this love of trout fishing with others. His skills were prominently featured in the North Carolina Sportsman magazine and other publications. He learned not only the art of fly fishing but also the craft of fly tying. Aside from that passion he most enjoyed his time at home tending his garden, watching football, loving on his little dog Lady, and sitting on the porch visiting with family and friends. He never met a stranger and reminisced of older, slower times. The visitation and service will be at Crisp Funeral Home on Sunday, October 29th at 2:00pm. Reverend Jimmy Lambert will officiate. Immediately after Richard will be buried at the private Bowers Family Cemetery on “the head of Alarka,” exactly where he always wanted to be. All are invited to attend. Richard requested all friends and family dress casually - it’s exactly how he will be! In lieu of flowers the family asks you to spend some quality time with a family member or friend. Share a kind gesture, visit someone. Or, enjoy a good day fishing and think of Richard.